If you're looking to try your hand at wahoo fishing in North Carolina, here are some tips to make the most of your trip. These tips will help you get the best catch whether you fish offshore or with high-speed lures. And remember, there's no size limit for recreational catch of wahoo. And as long as you're holding the appropriate commercial licenses, you'll have no problem landing a trophy fish.
Offshore trolling
The best time to go offshore trolling for wahoo fishing in North Carolina is during the fall, especially late August and early September. Wahoos start appearing in the waters surrounding Morehead City between mid and late August. Clear, calm water and little current are the best conditions for fishing. For offshore trolling, a ballyhoo rigged plainly is a good choice of bait. There are many other lures available, such as cedar plugs, Green Machines and Wahoo Whackers.
Whajoo do not fear boats and prefer baits that are fished below the surface. This technique is very popular at the Bahamas, where boats can pull artificials up to twenty knees. However, in the Carolinas, Barracuda are not a problem. The ocean temperature increases, which means that the wahoo will also rise. The water temperature and conditions for fishing are ideal for wahoo.
In spring and summer, wahoo is the primary target. But, other species can make an appearance depending on when the winter to spring transition occurs. The yellowfin and bluefin tuna have historically been the top targets in spring. But they are now absent. Although some do get caught, there are not many. This has made the catch even more rewarding. The tactics of five successful captains may interest you if your interests lie in trolling at high speeds.
Ballyhoos
Ballyhoos are the best bait for catching wahoo. You can either freeze or freshen the bait and retrieve it with a trolling J-hook. The hook itself should be in line with fish's nostrils. Ballyhoos have a great reputation for seafloor and surface fishing.
Wahoos are most likely to be found in the deeper water column. However, they can also be found on the sand and in water. Ballyhoos should be of a dark color to attract strikes from wahoo. They are fast and aggressive, reaching speeds of up to 125 mph in just seconds. Ballyhoos also work well in luring other types fish.
Ballyhoos are the most effective wahoo lures in the waters off North Carolina. Ballyhoos comes in many different colors and textures. A ballyhoo can catch wahoo in its own waters if it is fished properly. Ballyhoos also make excellent wahoo bait. A planer rod is a good choice for a hard lure. You can invest in either a Yo-zuri Bonita (or a Braid Marauder). They are available in many different colors, such as pink/black and purple/black.
A single-strand stainless steel wire leader in coffee-colored stainless will be a good choice for fishing for wahoo. The leader should have a bridle attached to it. You can find planers in three to sixteen sizes. Rigging is crucial for success. Capt. Weaver also noted that wahoo are a common target. If you plan to target wahoo, you can rig a planer with an aide and a bridle to help you locate the sweet spot.
High-speed lures
Many high-speed lures for trolling are available to catch wahoo. These lures can be pulled using an inline trolling weight, and then placed on a planer or downrigger. When targeting big tuna or wahoo, dark colors are especially effective. These lures are strong and durable, so they can keep going even after you catch many fish. MagBay as well as Nomad manufacture high-speed trolling lures.
High-speed trolling baits are ideal for these fish, as they can move quickly enough to reach a good spot. Wahoo can travel at 60 mph, while strike lures travel at 18 mph. That's the speed of an average transiting bait in two- to four-foot waves. You should therefore use heavy lures that have quality drag. Gaffing the fish should be done by two people for maximum success.
The lip plug is a popular type of high-speed lure. These lures are typically rigged with wire or cable. This method can lead to the lure breaking if it is bent. Therefore, multi-strand cables are recommended. The wire can also run straighter because it is less likely to bend or kink. Clips are also useful for changing lures quickly.
Floating debris
This is a great spot to catch this trophy fish. Whajoo will only eat wrecks, ledges, or floating debris as their preferred bottom habitat. These structures are the ideal habitat for wahoo who will often stack up under these items. Another great spot to target this fish is floating debris. It often works well beneath these obstacles. Floating debris may also be a good way to spot these majestic fish schools.
Before fishing for wahoo schools, it is important to inspect any floating debris for dolphins. If there are no dolphins or other baitfish in the area, he should leave it alone. To reach the wahoo, he must use a fast-retrieve rod with a 6-to-1 ratio. A 4 to 6 ounce, diamond jig is recommended with a Mustad 3407 hook. If the bait becomes entangled in debris, the jig should be long enough for it to protect the fluorocarbon leader of 60 pounds and the float. Butterfly-style jigs should not exist - they have assistance hooks at its top.
The water surface temperature in cooler months is lower, increasing the likelihood of finding a Wahoo. This species prefers areas with water that is cooler and more current. Use satellite imagery to monitor surface temperature to determine whether any small changes in the temperature will bring in a higher concentration of Wahoo. The temperature of the water surface drops, which means that the fish population moves to these areas more often. These areas are the best for fishing during this time.
Structure
In the Gulf of Mexico, the structure of wahoo fishing in North Carolina may be an anomaly. Wahoo are known to migrate in migratory patterns. They might travel in the Atlantic through the following regions: the Caribbean Gulf of Mexico; the Western Atlantic; and then on to the eastern Atlantic. These fish live in structures that are determined by currents, water temperature, and other factors.
Whalos are structure-oriented during the fall. This means they often drop in 120 feet of water and frequent inshore lumps. This large fish is known for their razor-sharp jaws. Hagerich recommends heavy singlestrand wire and an extremely heavy-duty fishing rod in order to catch one. A captain is helpful when fishing for wahoos by helping anglers stay on the water and bumping the boat.
Whalos can be aggressive bottom formations. They like to hang out around wrecks, ledges and other weedlines. They prefer to strike fast-moving lures. They will often remain near weedlines and trash in North Carolina. This makes them more likely to find a weedline or artificial lure. They can reach speeds of up to ten knots.
The best time to fish for wahoo is July through September, even though it's a year-round species. These fish prefer warmer Gulf Stream temperatures, and North Carolina has a lot of options for wahoo fishermen looking to find them. To find a few wahoo, trolling offshore wrecks or humps is a good option.
Peak feeding times
There are several times of year when wahoo fishing is particularly productive, but there are some specific peak times of the month that you should target for best results. The best times to wahoo fish are the days immediately prior and after the Full Moon and the New Moon. These peak times are best when you trolling at a high or normal speed. If your boat is capable to handle the additional speed, you will be able catch a wahoo.
Summer is the best time of year to go wahoo fishing. The best places to catch these fish are on the ledges and structures between Jupiter's and Stuart inlets. The average wahoo weights in at 25 to 25 pounds. However, there are often 50-pounders. During prime time you will be able catch both a large and a smaller wahoo.
It is best to go after wahoo between October and March. These months are cooler than normal, which makes wahoo more inclined to bite. While the weather in May can be unpredictable, this is generally the best time for light-tackle fishing. If you're planning a trip during this time, the best bait for wahoo is blue-crystal. For big fish, however you might want to try fishing in late April and/or early May.
FAQ
Do I need special clothing when fishing?
You will need clothing that is waterproof to protect you from the elements. While fishing, a waders suits is often worn. Waders cover the legs and feet with waterproof pants. Wader suits can be purchased with boots. Other waders suits can be worn with no boots.
Is it safe and legal to eat fish caught from another source?
Always ask your seller where you bought your fish. It's safe to eat if the fish doesn't have an expiration date. However, if the fish is old or smells bad you should not eat them.
What is the best bait for freshwater fishing?
Live shrimp is the best bait available for freshwater fisherman. Shrimp are cheap, easy to catch and great tasting!
How do I bait my hooks with bait?
You can bait your hooks by attaching a piece de meat to the end of your hook. Tie the meat around the hook's eye.
What's the right fishing rod length?
The type of fish you are trying to catch will determine the length of your fishing rod. A 6'6" rod is ideal if you are targeting smallmouth bass. A 7'5" rod may be better if you are looking for largemouth bass.
Where can I find good fishing guides?
Many services are provided by fishing guides. A fishing guide can offer advice on where to catch the most fish, provide tips on how you catch them, and even teach you how they use different types or equipment.
Statistics
- Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
- To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)
- It is estimated there are at least 2 million people who go fishing in California each year. (californiayachtsales.com)
External Links
How To
How to Cast a Fishing Rod Easily
You must first know how to cast a fish rod. You should hold the rod at a slight angle to ensure the line is parallel with the ground. When you start moving the rod forward, keep the tip of the rod perpendicular to the surface of the water. The fish won't eat if the tip touches water's surface sooner than the line reaches bottom. This technique can help increase the distance between your rod tip and the water's surface.
Here are some tips to help you cast a rod confidently.
Begin by holding the rod close to your chest. You can control the rod's direction by this method without having to bend down.
If you are casting a large rod, it is a good idea to put a tripod on the shoreline. You'll be able rest your rod securely and still have control of the reel.
You might also consider purchasing a small reel rather than an expensive one. A cheap spinning reel will allow you to cast longer distances and will help you develop good hand-eye coordination.
A fishing pole holder might be another option. These holders hold the rod securely and keep it upright. They're easy to store away after use and protect the rod from getting damaged.
Fifth, practice casting until your muscles get used to it. It takes time to master the art of casting a fishing rod.
Sixth, remember that the key to successful fishing is patience. You must wait for the right moment to strike and then fight hard to bring the fish in.